Interpersonal Relationships and Health: Social and Clinical Psychological Mechanisms

Christopher R. Agnew and Susan C. South

Abstract

This book considers theoretical and empirical issues relevant to understanding the social and clinical psychological mechanisms linking close relationship processes with mental and physical health outcomes. The volume arises out of a recent explosion of interest, across multiple academic and research fields, in the ways that interpersonal relationships affect health and well-being. This book focuses on different aspects of relationships and health in order to encourage both collaboration and cross-disciplinary initiatives. Topics addressed include key biological processes that influence and, i ... More

This book considers theoretical and empirical issues relevant to understanding the social and clinical psychological mechanisms linking close relationship processes with mental and physical health outcomes. The volume arises out of a recent explosion of interest, across multiple academic and research fields, in the ways that interpersonal relationships affect health and well-being. This book focuses on different aspects of relationships and health in order to encourage both collaboration and cross-disciplinary initiatives. Topics addressed include key biological processes that influence and, in turn, are influenced by close relationships. Research that demonstrates the connections between interpersonal relationships, mental and physical health outcomes, and biophysical markers that figure prominently in the fields of psychoneuroimmunology, endocrinology, and cardiology is presented. In addition, recent work on marital, family, and social relationships and their interplay with health and well-being is highlighted. Chapters also address sexual health among young and older adults, as well as clinical intervention efforts that focus on the role of relational factors in influencing health. Each chapter highlights extant theoretical and empirical findings and suggests future avenues for research in this burgeoning area.

M. Lynne Cooper and Ruixue Zhaoyang

Part Four Summary

Susan C. South

End Matter

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